What to know before getting hopper windows for your home?

What is a hopper window?

Windows of this type have compact straps that open inward. Their hinges are located at the bottom, and they make exceptional windows for the basement.

Since the 1890s, when they were first invented, awning hopper windows have remained popular because they can fit in small areas and are opened for better airflow. And since the windowpane slants upward, it stops trash or debris from blowing into the house. 

Moreover, these windows are a very considerable addition to homes with minimal space to work with. Basements, bathrooms, and garages are some of the best places to add a hopper window. But you can still pair them with other larger windows to give a specific room a unique impression.

What are the common hopper window sizes?

Like awning windows, hopper vent screen windows are more desirable for smaller openings and are available in square and rectangular shapes. Plus, they come in different designs and sizes. 

The most common hopper window size is 12 to 24 inches high by 30 to 36 inches long. But they are also available in large sizes, 50 by 30 inches, and can be customized to fit any window size or shape.

What areas of your home are best suited for installing hopper units?

Any hopper window definition emphasizes its unique design and adaptability. People install them in basements, laundry rooms, tubs, and even showers. Besides, they're commonly used to brighten up the walk-in closets with natural light. Some homeowners also prefer to place them at the bottom of long, narrow inoperable windows for air ventilation.

Let us take a look at the areas where hopper units work best: 

• Basement. With such limited space available, the basement makes for an ideal place to add a low-profile window. A small hopper window will deliver good air ventilation without destroying your property's curb appeal.
• Bathroom. If you need plenty of airflow in your bathroom, but your privacy is also a top concern, putting a small window just above the tub or the shower would surely help. This position lets in natural light while taking out steam and odors.
• Kitchen. If you're about to makeover your kitchen, you might consider adding a hopper window above the sink. This will add a remarkable flair to your design and promote air ventilation while cooking or cleaning your dishes.
• Walkway. You can also place awning hopper windows in walkways, patios, and garages that often get high foot traffic. Because they open inward, hoppers can help keep the air flowing without blocking the path.

The pros and cons of replacement basement windows

These unique small windows are more adaptable than they are usually given credit for. With this in mind, it is critical to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before deciding on the replacement basement window that's best for your home. 

Here are the key pros: 

• They are great for air circulation. There's a reason why hopper windows are often placed high up on a wall. That's where you get to enjoy the maximum effect from the excellent airflow. They are as popular as air vents in bathrooms and above the door. But they can still be placed above or below a picture window for air circulation.
• They are good for security. Due to their small size, hoppers are very ineffective for break-ins, making them the perfect option for security-conscious homeowners. Again, placing them high off the ground makes them harder for potential intruders or burglars to reach.
• They are easy to clean. Since these windows swing inward, it is practical and super easy to clean them. This is because you can easily and quickly wipe the two sides of the glass without going outside.

Here are the primary cons:

• They get in your way. One of the reasons most of these windows are installed high on the wall is that they can become obstructive if they open into your living space. They can also interfere with your curtains and drapes, thus making it harder for you to decorate certain areas.
• They don't shield against the rain. Unlike awning windows that can be left open even when it's raining, you risk getting your home completely drenched if, let's say, you accidentally left a hopper window open during a storm. Apart from all the benefits, the way they open inward also has a disadvantage.

Hopper vs. awning windows - What is your best bet?

When it comes to promoting airflow and enhancing natural light, awning and hopper windows are among the best. If you are thinking about upgrading your home, or perhaps you're in the middle of building a new house, then you will find it particularly helpful to learn about these window styles. 

First, awning windows are built in such a way that the bottom of the sash swings towards the outside of the house when you open it. Meanwhile, hoppers are built in such a way that the top of the sash swings towards the inside when you open it.

Second, awning windows were used before air conditioning was invented. This was the perfect solution because it kept the fresh air flowing into the house while keeping light rain out. Hoppers, on the other hand, are still popular for small rooms with limited space, such as basements, bathrooms, and garages, to name a few. And unlike the double-hung or slider windows that only open halfway, hoppers allow more airflow because they can be entirely open.

The difference between awning and hopper basement windows

The primary difference between a hopper and an awning window is how they're fastened and how they open up. As we have already mentioned, hoppers are hinged at the bottom, while awning windows are hinged at the top, which makes them function differently.

Similarly, awnings are relatively efficient when it comes to the air ventilation. They allow in plenty of airflows while keeping out light rain, making them ideal for kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and even basements. Meanwhile, hoppers are commonly used in basements and bathrooms thanks to their size and adequate air ventilation.

Both window styles provide sufficient airflow and will brighten any room with plenty of natural light. And even though they look pretty similar when they are closed, the way each window style operates makes them perfect for different places around the home. Lastly, both windows can benefit your home a great deal, as long as they are properly installed.

How much does a hopper window cost?

Configuration, frame material, glass quality, and other features affect the ultimate cost of a window. Besides, labor fees could vary depending on the region and complexity of the job. But the national average cost for a hopper window ranges from $120 to $645, including installation. 

A traditional window with only a few moving parts may cost as little as $100 or $120, while a unit with an energy-efficient argon glass can attract as much as $200 at a local outlet. Professional installation costs are also included in the price.

Why entrust hopper window installation to professionals?

The process of a standard window installation may seem easy to homeowners with handyman skills. But remember, the hardware, glass, frame, and other elements must be fitted perfectly. And this is to ensure that your window is tightly sealed and also opens or closes well.

Don't settle for anything but an expert-level hopper vent screen window installation to make sure that your window fits the space well and opens fully inward. Contractors boasting multiple-year hands-on experience ensure smooth installation and efficient sealing that prolongs the service life of your windows, bringing you a higher return on investment. 

You can now grab your exclusive offers from up to 4 local window installers by leaving your request on MyHomeQuote. All it takes is to fill out our simple request form and give our managers a few hours to connect you with matching contractors.

Conclusion

Not only do hoppers help you light up a dark room or bring in some fresh air, but also help you cut down on energy costs. Furthermore, installing hoppers is a very reliable and cost-effective solution to provide plenty of light and boost air ventilation in your basement. And just as we have mentioned above, if you want to install basement hopper windows, be sure to work with an experienced window expert to get the best results.